King Charles and his glittering Queen consort attend first State Banquet of his reign

King Charles donned a black tailcoat and trousers with a white waistcoat and tie, along with the Order of Merit around his neck. Camilla was in a striking black evening dress with silver embroidery by Bruce Oldfield. She also sported the honeycomb Boucheron diamond tiara, a favourite of the late Queen Mother that was also worn by Queen Elizabeth. The couple were greeted by a line-up of dignitaries before entering the banquet hall, where they enjoyed a four-course meal featuring German and British cuisine.

During his speech, King Charles also praised the strong economic ties between the two countries, and expressed his hope for continued collaboration and friendship in the years to come. The State Visit marks a significant moment in the relationship between Britain and Germany, as it is the first such visit by a British monarch in over a decade.

The visit comes amid heightened tensions between Russia and Ukraine, with both Britain and Germany having pledged their support to Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression. The State Visit is seen as a symbolic show of solidarity with Ukraine, as well as a celebration of the longstanding friendship between Britain and Germany.

The King and Queen Consort have been welcomed at a glittering formal banquet in Berlin to mark their first state visit to Germany.

Camilla, Queen Consort attends a State Banquet at Schloss Bellevue, hosted by the President Frank-Walter Steinmeier

The King's speech also touched on the importance of collaboration between Britain and Germany in tackling global challenges such as climate change, and emphasized the need for continued cooperation between the two countries. He also expressed his admiration for Germany's culture and history, and highlighted the strong people-to-people ties between the two nations.

The State Visit is seen as a significant moment in the relationship between Britain and Germany, particularly in the context of Brexit and the changing political landscape in Europe. The visit is expected to strengthen ties between the two countries and reaffirm their commitment to working together on a range of issues, including trade, security, and culture.

Overall, the State Visit was a success, with the royal couple receiving a warm welcome from their German hosts and enjoying a memorable evening of fine dining, cultural exchange, and diplomatic engagement.

King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla (together in centre) are welcomed by German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier (right) and his wife Elke Buedenbender (left)

The King delivered a warm and witty speech during the banquet as he praised the long-lasting relationship between Britain and Germany

Queen Consort Camilla looked resplendent wearing the Grenville Tiara once owned by the Queen Mother

Guests enjoyed a warm and ambient reception at Schloss Bellevue as the German President formally hosted the King and Queen Consort

Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier praised his country's longstanding bond with Britain during the reception

State guards flank the royal couple and German President and his wife at the doors of Bellevue Palace

The King also expressed his gratitude for the close collaboration between Britain and Germany in addressing global challenges, saying: 'We are faced with no shortage of challenges in today's world, whether it be climate change, pandemics, or economic insecurity. But in each of these areas, we are stronger when we work together.'

He concluded his speech by reaffirming his commitment to the special relationship between Britain and Germany, saying: 'So let us continue to strengthen our ties, to deepen our friendship, and to celebrate the enduring value of our relationship.'

The State Visit to Germany was a significant moment in the King's reign, highlighting the importance of diplomatic engagement and international collaboration in addressing the challenges of the 21st century. The warmth of the reception he and the Queen Consort received in Germany underscores the deep historical and cultural ties between the two nations, and bodes well for continued cooperation in the years to come.

Among the guests was former Chancellor Angela Merkel (left) who stepped down in November 2021 after 16 years in office, and sat close to the King

British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly and his wife Susannah pose outside Schloss Bellevue ahead of yesterday's banquet

King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla surrounded by dignitaries at the banquet

Horst Koehler (left), former German president, and his wife Eva Luise Koehler arrive for a white tie dinner at presidential palace Schloss Bellevue

German Finance Minister Christian Lindner and his wife Franca Lehfeldt pose outside the palace

Germany's Christian Democratic Union party (CDU) leader Friedrich Merz (right) attends Bellevue Palace for the state banquet hosting the King and Queen Consort

It also reflects the shared commitment of both our nations to defend the principles of freedom, democracy and human rights. I am proud of the work that we have done together in supporting Ukraine, and I believe that we must continue to stand together in the face of aggression and uphold the international rules-based order.

'As we look towards the future, I am confident that the relationship between our two nations will only continue to grow stronger. Together, we can overcome the challenges that lie ahead and build a brighter future for our people and for generations to come.'

The King's remarks demonstrate his deep commitment to the relationship between Britain and Germany, and his belief in the importance of working together to address global challenges. His tribute to Germany's hospitality towards Ukrainian refugees is a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion and generosity in times of crisis. The State Visit to Germany was an important opportunity to strengthen diplomatic ties and build new partnerships, and the King's speech serves as a testament to the enduring friendship between Britain and Germany.

Joachim Gauck (R), former German president, and his partner Daniela Schadt arrive at Schloss Bellevue

Schloss Bellevue, an elegant 18th century palace in Berlin, is the official residence of the German President

King Charles III of the United Kingdom and his wife, Queen Consort Camilla, have made their first state visit to Germany. President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and his wife Elke Budenbender formally greeted the couple at the Brandenburg Gate, with both national anthems being played. King Charles III and President Steinmeier later attended a green energy reception at Schloss Bellevue, where the President hailed the monarch's foresight on climate change and healthy nutrition. The two leaders also discussed the start of work on an undersea power cable between Kent and Wilhelmshaven, Germany. The couple's visit had been cancelled in France at the last minute due to civil unrest.

Charles' joins the German president to plant a tree in honour of Queen Elizabeth II

The King chats with attendees at a Green Energy reception at Bellevue Palace

The Queen's Green Canopy initiative is a project launched by Queen Elizabeth II in 2021 to encourage the planting of trees throughout the United Kingdom to mark her Platinum Jubilee in 2022. The project aims to plant millions of trees in the UK, creating a network of green spaces that will benefit communities and the environment for generations to come.

King Charles III's visit to Germany was part of a wider effort to raise awareness about the urgent need to address climate change and promote sustainable development. The King has long been an advocate for environmental issues and has championed a range of initiatives aimed at promoting conservation and sustainability.

The group of young climate activists that King Charles III met with in Berlin are part of a growing global movement of young people who are calling for urgent action on climate change. These young activists are leading protests and demonstrations around the world, demanding that governments and businesses take concrete steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to a more sustainable economy.

By meeting with these activists and listening to their concerns and ideas, King Charles III is demonstrating his commitment to engaging with young people and promoting their involvement in the fight against climate change. The planting of the tree in the garden of the presidential palace is a symbolic gesture that highlights the importance of preserving and protecting our natural environment for future generations.

The foursome seemed to enjoy each other's company as they chatted in front of the famous landmark 

Crowds carrying German and British flags wait to greet the royals in Berlin 

Charles greets well-wishers following a welcome ceremony at Brandenburg Gate in Berlin

German troops massed at the Brandenburg Gate, where Charles and Camilla are being given a full ceremonial welcome